Former England assistant coach Andy Farrell is to take on an advisory role at Munster with immediate effect.

Farrell, who left his England post last month along with fellow assistants Mike Catt and Graham Rowntree, was recently appointed as Ireland defence coach.

Farrell will commence work in that job after this season's Six Nations Championship, but in the meantime he will join Munster as a part-time coaching advisor.

David Nucifora, the Irish Rugby Football Union's performance director, said: "Andy's gardening leave prevents him from coaching in the international game at this time, but he has agreed to an advisory role working with [Munster head coach Anthony Foley] and his back-room team."

Munster chief executive Garrett Fitzgerald said: "We have been looking for additional support for our coaching staff. And with the timely availability of an experienced coach such as Andy Farrell, we felt his inclusion would be hugely beneficial in assisting our coaching team."